Prof David Fowler

Professor David Fowler is to join the University of Sussex and Sussex Partnership NHS Foundation Trust in a jointly funded post as Professor of Psychology.

Professor Fowler is currently Professor of Social Psychiatry and Head of the Department of Psychological Sciences at Norwich Medical School and Clinical Lead in the Norfolk Youth and Early Intervention Service.

Professor Fowler’s appointment will allow the University and the Trust to take forward their ambitious plans for an extensive programme of clinical research exploring the needs of young people.

Professor Pete Clifton, Head of the School of Psychology at the University of Sussex, said: “I believe that close co-operation between academic and clinical partners will drive forward research in this area and also provide considerable benefits to young people who face mental health challenges as well as to their families and friends.”

Lisa Rodrigues, Chief Executive of Sussex Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, added: “We are delighted that David Fowler is joining us in Sussex.

“Children and young people need the best start in life and his appointment will enable us to develop and deliver excellent services.

“David’s arrival is a further recognition of our status as a national focus for mental health research and development.”

Professor Fowler said: "Youth mental health is a key priority area. We now know that most serious socially disabling mental health problems start in adolescence. Much can be done to prevent and address problems by early intervention, but we need research to inform better detection strategies and to develop more effective novel interventions and service structures.

“It is fantastic that Sussex Partnership Foundation Trust and the University of Sussex have recognised this strategic opportunity and have allied a deep commitment to better services with a clear understanding of the role of research shaping innovation.

“I am very excited at taking up this appointment and having the opportunity to work with the existing group of outstanding clinical and research colleagues to take this forward."

Professor Fowler will join the University of Sussex in early October 2013.

He is also a speaker at Sussex Partnership’s Annual Research & Development Conference at the University of Sussex on Thursday 13 June. People can register to attend the event by contacting research@sussexpartnership.nhs.uk